The Little Prince (2015)

Based on Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's beloved best-seller, "The Little Prince" (2015) offers a captivating new perspective on the timeless tale. The film introduces us to a young girl living a highly structured, albeit uninspired, life dictated by her mother's strict plan for academic success. Her world of rigid efficiency and relentless preparation is shattered when she befriends her eccentric, elderly neighbor. This unlikely friendship opens a door to a fantastical adventure as the neighbor recounts his own extraordinary encounters with the Little Prince, a mysterious boy from a distant asteroid. This enchanting adaptation by Mark Osborne undeniably earns its place on a list of his best films. Osborne masterfully blends traditional hand-drawn animation with stunning CGI, creating a visually rich and emotionally resonant experience that honors the spirit of the original book. He navigates the delicate balance between honoring the source material's philosophical depth and making it accessible to a modern audience, particularly through the framing device of the little girl's journey. Osborne's talent for imbuing animation with profound emotional weight, as seen in his work on "Kung Fu Panda," is on full display here, making "The Little Prince" a touching exploration of imagination, friendship, and the importance of seeing with one's heart.